sponsor

Where does the word "sponsor" come from? It comes from Latin sponsor, and was adopted directly into English (1650s).

Sponsor’s story begins in Latin: sponsor meant “guarantor.” From 'spondere', to promise solemnly; the same root as 'spouse'. It reached English by 1650s as sponsor. A godparent at baptism; radio advertisers took it up in the 1930s. Today, sponsor means a person or company that supports an event, usually financially.

1. Stage 1 · Latin · ancient sponsor "guarantor", from 'spondere', to promise solemnly; the same root as 'spouse'.
2. Stage 2 · English · 1650s sponsor "a supporter", a godparent at baptism; radio advertisers took it up in the 1930s.